The Democratic Alliance (DA) in the Western Cape on Thursday called on Social Development Minister Nokuzola Tolashe to provide clarity on the reasons behind the precautionary suspension of South African Social Security Agency (Sassa) CEO Busisiwe Memela-Khambula.

The party also wants Tolashe to outline the steps being taken to ensure social grant payments are processed without delays or interruptions at the beginning of 2025.

DA Western Cape spokesperson on social development Wendy Kaizer-Philander highlighted that despite the announcement of Memela-Khambula's suspension last week, Tolashe has yet to provide any substantive reasons for this decision beyond vague references to an investigation and concerns raised by the Public Protector.

"While we acknowledge the importance of ensuring transparency and integrity within Sassa — an institution tasked with supporting millions of vulnerable South Africans — the lack of detailed communication from the Minister’s office is deeply concerning. South Africans deserve to understand the specific allegations or circumstances that have warranted this action, especially given the ongoing crisis of service delivery within Sassa," said Kaizer-Philander.

She pointed out that it is critical to emphasise that this decision affects not only the CEO but also the beneficiaries who rely on Sassa for their survival.

The suspension, without a clear explanation, raises further questions about governance and accountability within the agency and the broader Department of Social Development, she added.

Kaizer-Philander said her party has long advocated for "transparency and accountability" at Sassa.

"...this is why we welcomed the suspension as an opportunity to address longstanding mismanagement and operational failures. However, accountability cannot be achieved in an environment of secrecy and vague statements. If the suspension is truly in the interests of 'steering Sassa in the right direction', as claimed by the Minister, the reasons behind it must be disclosed without delay," she noted.

The DA said it demands assurance that sufficient planning and contingency measures are in place to guarantee the smooth operation of Sassa’s payment systems, avoiding any unnecessary disruptions.

"South Africans cannot afford further uncertainty and failures in service delivery. The Minister should take the nation into her confidence to restore trust and credibility in Sassa’s leadership and operations," said Kaizer-Philander.